Tennessee
Pedestrian
Accident
Lawyer

Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents can occur in various circumstances, and understanding these common scenarios can aid in prevention and awareness. While every accident is unique and factors can vary widely, some situations tend to be more prevalent than others, leading to these unfortunate events.

• Crosswalk accidents: Although crosswalks are designed to be safe zones for pedestrians, many accidents occur here, especially when drivers fail to yield the right of way.
• Parking lot incidents: Busy parking lots, particularly in shopping centers and malls, can become hotspots for pedestrian accidents. Drivers might not always be vigilant about pedestrians walking between parked cars or moving towards store entrances.
• Vehicles turning at intersections: A driver making a turn might be more focused on other vehicular traffic than on checking for pedestrians crossing the street.
• Accidents near bus stops: As passengers alight from or rush to catch buses, they might not always be in designated pedestrian zones, leading to potential accidents.
• School zone accidents: Despite strict speed limits and regulations, children walking to or from schools can sometimes become victims if drivers are not attentive enough.
• Driveway backover accidents: These occur when a vehicle is reversing out of a driveway and hits a pedestrian, often a child, not seen in the driver’s blind spot.

When the unforeseen happens, having an advocate on your side to navigate the aftermath can make a significant difference in the outcome.

Dealing with Insurance Companies After a Pedestrian Accident

Navigating the aftermath of a pedestrian accident can be an overwhelming experience, especially when insurance companies become involved.

Insurance companies, even your own, operate as businesses. Their primary goal, unfortunately, is not always the well-being of the victim but to protect their bottom line. As such, they might quickly offer a settlement that seems substantial but might not adequately cover long-term medical costs, lost wages, or pain and suffering. In some pedestrian accident cases, insurance adjusters might attempt to place part or all of the fault on the pedestrian, reducing their obligation to pay. They might scrutinize the accident details, seeking any possible way to argue that the pedestrian’s actions contributed to the incident.

An experienced legal advocate can help counter these tactics, ensuring that the victim’s rights are upheld and that they receive a fair assessment of their damages. Familiarity with Tennessee’s specific laws and regulations related to pedestrian accidents and liability is crucial in these situations, and a knowledgeable lawyer can make all the difference in securing just compensation.